Jeremy Clarkson could potentially sign a deal with streaming platform Netflix, following his ousting from the hugely popular BBC car show Top Gear.
The presenter was removed from the show after punching producer Oisin Tymon, with the BBC revealing that they had opted not to renew his contract when it expires in March. However, Clarkson has proven to be a hugely lucrative presenter for the broadcaster, which will likely mean that he will be snapped up swiftly by competing networks. It is being reported that Netflix could swoop in first with a multi-million pound deal that would also allow Clarkson full creative control over his product.
Also See: Top Gear Will Continue Without Jeremy Clarkson, BBC Statement Confirms
While the BBC will retain the Top Gear brand and format, with radio DJ Chris Evans being pegged as Clarkson’s replacement, Clarkson could take up hosting duties on a brand new car show on the streaming service. Top Gear is already popular on the platform, with Netflix broadcasting it on both its UK and US versions, and regardless of your personal opinions on Clarkson it would no doubt be a huge coup for the service financially if they were to secure a deal with him.
It would also be likely that his former Top Gear co-hosts, Richard Hammond and James May, would follow suit if he were to sign a contract, with May telling press following the announcement of Clarkson’s sackings that the trio “come as a package.”
This is all just speculation at this point, with it also being rumoured that Sky and maybe even Channel 5 are also lining up deals in the UK for a new show for the presenter. Given Clarkson was particularly outspoken about the shackles the BBC apparently placed around his wrists (i.e. don’t be racist, don’t punch producers in the face), we’d expect he’ll go with the company that offers him the most creative freedom to do and say as he likes.
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